FAQ’s

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where are your awards available?

A:  Our awards are available to residents of the State of Florida. Mobility Vans for Kids hopes to expand in the future.

Q: Are your van conversions outfitted using a specific brand?

A: No, our partner MobilityWorks uses all automotive mobility products that are certified by the NMEDA. All manufactured products must be sold by a certified NMEDA dealer (MobilityWorks). Mobility products may include the conversion of a full size or minivan, wheelchair/scooter lifts, transfer seats, wheelchair securement systems, driving aids, etc.

Q: What does NMEDA stand for?

A: NMEDA is the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association. The NMEDA works to establish industry standards on the safety, reliability and accessibility of adaptive mobility equipment and raise awareness of the variety of options available to those living with disabilities. Each NMEDA member is required to adhere to the safety standards of Transport Canada and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and to follow the guidelines set forth by NMEDA. Additionally, all NMEDA dealer members are required to participate in the Quality Assurance Program™ (QAP).The Quality Assurance Program is a recognized accreditation program for the mobility equipment industry developed to promote quality, dependability, and safety within the industry. QAP is the only program of this nature developed for the mobility equipment industry and participation ensures mobility equipment installation is consistent with the highest guidelines of professionalism available in the industry. You can learn more about NMEDA at http://www.nmeda.com/.

Q: Will we get to choose the specific van if selected as a recipient?

A: No, most often the van has been purchased by MV4K prior to being awarded. 

Q: Do you help toward the conversion/modification of a currently owned van?

A:  Yes, we have the potential to see how much it would cost to repair or add any mobility assistance products to a currently owned vehicle provided the van is less than three years old. This is not common, but we do have the ability to look into it.

Q: If I have already purchased mobility equipment, can I apply for a grant to help with payment of the loan?

A: No, we are unable to award grants for purchases or projects already completed.

Q: Can I mail the application to you? Is there a paper copy of the application available?

A: No, as a small organization that receives many applications, our process is done entirely online and via email. All applications are submitted online, and all communication is done via email. We suggest using a desktop or laptop computer when completing application tasks, however, you are able to use a cell phone or tablet to complete the entire application process.

Q: Do I need to provide proof of income for everyone in the home?

A: Yes, we must receive proof of income for all members of your household over the age of 18. This includes employment income, disability or social security income, retirement, child support, etc.

Q: What proof of income documentation must be submitted?

A: You will be asked to fill out a Financial Information Form that will ask to list ALL sources of income as well as expenses. You may be asked to submit the most recent copy of your completed tax forms (please only include the summary pages and mark out your social security number), bank statements (most recent two months), paycheck stubs (most recent two months), or letter from government agency documenting amount of benefit.

Q: Do I need to list all other agencies to which I have applied?

A: Yes, you must provide information regarding the other organizations or agencies to which you have applied as well as the response you have received from them. If you are or will be receiving financial assistance from other organizations or agencies, please indicate the amount of the award for each.

Q: When are decisions made?

A: Decisions will be made approximately within 90 days of initial application. Due to Covid-19, please expect a longer application process. All applicants must adhere to the Application Guidelines regarding communication with Mobility Vans for Kids. 

Q: Will I need to provide proof of insurance?

A: Yes, all award recipients must show proof of insurance upon delivery of the van. Any recipient that fails to provide proof of insurance at the time of delivery will not take possession of the van. 

Q: How will I be notified if my application has been accepted?

A: You will be notified by e-mail at the address provided on your application.

Q: Will the payment be made to me?

A: No, Mobility Vans for Kids will originate and finalize the purchase the vehicle through our national partner MobilityWorks. 

Q: How will the closing costs and monthly payments be submitted?

A: The closing costs and monthly payments will be paid directly to MV4K (by recipient) via electronic funds transfer (EFT) using Zelle or Venmo. A check may be used to submit the closing costs; however, the payment must be made on or prior to the day of delivery. All future/remaining monthly payments will be made by EFT (after closing).  

Q: Do you offer grants for wheelchairs/scooters, home modifications, or vehicles?

A: No, our grant program is designed toward specialty mobility.

Q: Help! I am trying to submit my application online and have received an error message.

A:  Please use our Contact Us should you encounter any technical issues.

Q: Is my donation tax deductible?

A: Mobility Vans for Kids, LLC a subsidiary of the Castro Family Foundation Inc., a 501(C)(3) Private Operating Foundation. Your gift may qualify as a charitable deduction for federal income tax purposes.  Please consult with your tax advisor in regard to your eligibility.

Q: Where does Mobility Vans for Kids receive their funding?

A:  We are a public charity and rely on the generosity of our individual and corporate donors to support our organization.  Every dollar donated will help bring someone closer to having the wheels to thrive! Our primary funding source comes from the Castro Family Foundation, INC.

Q: What disqualifies an applicant to receive an award?

A: Mobility Vans for Kids (MV4K) awards are not guaranteed and are subject to availability. Due to the number of applications received, MV4K is unable to accommodate every request. We respectfully ask that you only apply if you have thoroughly reviewed the application rules, meet the criteria for submission, and provide a complete application. Please refer to our FAQ section for additional information. All awards are subject to termination at any time for any reason deemed necessary by Mobility Vans for Kids.